PETROV, who starred for Celtic between 1999 and 2006, retired two months ago after a year-long battle with the disease. He is now in remission and said the match will be a "wonderful" start for his foundation.

CELTIC are to host a charity match to raise money for a foundation set up by former player Stiliyan Petrov, who retired this year after a year-long battle with leukaemia.

The 33-year-old was diagnosed with the disease in March last year and has undergone intensive bouts of chemotherapy treatment.

He is now in remission but retired from playing in April and is establishing a foundation to support people going through the same experience.

The match on September 8 will feature some of Petrov's former Celtic team-mates along with other football legends and celebrity fans, the club said.

The Bulgarian, who played for Celtic between 1999 and 2006 before joining Aston Villa, said: "I'm absolutely delighted that this game is going to take place at Celtic Park.

"It will be a wonderful start for my foundation and I'm really happy to be coming back to a place where I spent seven brilliant years. It will be great to see everyone there.

"I know it's going to be an emotional occasion, particularly after what I've been through this past year, but I'm looking forward to it.

"I've had an incredible amount of support from fans everywhere, but obviously at Aston Villa and Celtic, and it's something that my family and I really appreciate."

Petrov said he wants his foundation to make a "real difference".

"It's very important to me to be able to help others and this game is a great start for the foundation, and I'd like to thank Celtic for organising this match," he said.

"I'm looking forward to being back at Celtic Park, meeting up with old friends and, of course, getting a chance to say thank-you to all the fans who've given me their support over the past year.

"It's the best possible start that my foundation can get and it will be a great occasion."

The match is being organised by the Celtic Charity Fund with the proceeds of the game being passed to support Petrov's nominated charities and a range of local community projects.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell said: "Stiliyan was a wonderful servant to the club and his drive, commitment and natural flair made him a true fans' favourite.

"He has shown remarkable courage and determination in his battle against leukaemia and we will continue to support him as his recovery continues.

"We are absolutely delighted to host this charity match which will provide our supporters with a collective opportunity to show their appreciation and love for one of our own."

Celtic Foundation chief executive Tony Hamilton said: "It's an honour for us to be involved in this match which celebrates a wonderful footballer but, more importantly, an incredible man - a man who knew what it meant to play for our football club.

"The funds raised will help others across the country facing a similar diagnosis to Stiliyan and also some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable people."

Tickets go on sale tomorrow costing £10 for adults and £5 for concessions.